The largest artificial reservoir in the Southern Urals is the Iriklinskoye reservoir, the construction of which lasted from 1949 to 1957. Thanks to the decision to create a large storage of fresh water, the Orenburg region has its own "sea" with a length of 415 km.
Today, the Iriklinskoye reservoir (photos are presented in the review) is a beautiful corner of nature with its own ecosystem, fishing and recreation centers. Thousands of tourists come here every year to relax and get a good catch.
Construction of the reservoir
For a long 8 years, construction was carried out, it took several settlements, forests and fields to be flooded in order for Orenburg to find its "sea". The Iriklinskoye reservoir was filled with water gradually, and only after another 8 years did the water reach the planned level - 245 m above sea level.
One ofthe oldest flooded settlements was the village of Tanalyk, founded in 1743. In its place, a bay was formed, named Tanalyksky in his honor. People and the village itself were moved to another place, as were the settlements of Gorny Erik, Malyatino, Nikolskoye and Sevastopolskoye.
A hydroelectric power station was built on the reservoir in the 50s of the last century, providing the nearest settlements with energy. 15 years later, the state district power station was put into operation, near which the city of Energetik grew up.
The depth of the Iriklinsky reservoir ranges from 12 to 40 m, and its mirror covers an area of 260 km2. In its waters were released for breeding fish of commercial species - perch, bream, roach, whitefish, pike perch and others. Now waterfowl nest here, fish farms work and tourists rest here.
Climate and landscape
The landscape that forms the Iriklinskoye reservoir is diverse and attractive enough to attract tourists.
Here there are sandy and rocky spits, islands and peninsulas, bays, capes and lagoons. The largest of the islands is the Island of Love, among the smaller ones, the Hanging Stone, Ust-Burlinsky and Koshar are in the greatest demand among fishermen.
Here there are caves and grottoes that attract tourists with their mystery. When the Iriklinskoye reservoir (Orenburg region) was being built, floodplain forests were flooded. Instead, almost 3,000 hectares have been planted to strengthen the coastline since the 70s and up to the present day.trees. For the steppe landscape inherent in this area, the banks of the reservoir are a pleasant change and another reason to spend a weekend here or come for a picnic.
The steppe climate with a lot of sunny days, the absence of strong storm winds, good water warming and high-quality sandy beaches have made this place popular not only for residents of the Orenburg region.
Flora of the Iriklinsk reservoir
As a result of the implementation of the plan for coastal landscaping, the Iriklinskoye reservoir has become a “home” for tree species such as black poplar, elm, birch, ash and maple. The "survival" of vegetation was uneven. There are sections of the coast where afforestation has occurred, while on others, on the contrary, self-seeding thickets of poplar and elm grow.
Of the shrub species, bird cherry, golden currant, shrub willow and narrow-leaved goof prevail. Cossack juniper has grown on the limestone slopes around the reservoir.
In the southern part of the "sea" is the Iriklinskoe gorge, there are cozy bays and backwaters, which have become a great place for the construction of recreation centers. Thickets of bird cherry and birch grow here, and in the Birch ravine there is a real dense forest.
Reservoir ecosystem
Due to the fact that the rivers that filled the Iriklinskoye reservoir differed in water composition, this place formed its own ecosystem.
The Ural River and part of its western tributaries hadcomposition of sodium-calcium water of medium hardness with medium mineralization.
At the same time, the eastern tributaries were characterized by a chloride-sodium structure of water with increased mineralization. From the river, S alt Pond “received” a chloride-sulfate composition with high mineralization.
The mixing of these waters "forces" the Iriklinskoe reservoir to bloom from time to time, usually from the second half of July to August. This is caused by a large amount of nitrogen, phosphorus and other substances that create "oxygen starvation" in the water.
Hydrochemical composition evolved for a long time until it stabilized to the level it has today. Due to all these processes, a part of the fish released into the reservoir for breeding either did not take root at all, or is present in it in very small quantities. Today, 40 species of fish from 13 families live in these waters.
Flocks of herring gulls, terns, belladonnas and black-headed gulls live along the banks of water bodies, and in total 240 species of birds have taken root in this area. The hare, common hamster, foxes, badgers, weasels and ermines feel great in these places. Of the snakes, there are snakes and steppe vipers.
Here you can simultaneously hear the whistle of marmots, the sounds of the steppe pika, the cries of birds and the sea surf, "seasoned" with the aromas of steppe herbs - thyme and sage with bitterness of wormwood.
Cherry Hills Base
Thanks to its beautiful coastline, there are many places for both organized and "wild" recreation to offerIriklinskoe reservoir. Cherry Hills is the most famous recreation center located in the wonderful southern part of the reservoir.
At the disposal of guests - cozy cottages and houses, accommodating from 6 to 20 people at a time. Fully equipped with everything necessary for a comfortable stay, they all have their own gazebo with barbecue, which allows you to fully relax, retire with family or friends.
A nice moment is 3 meals a day in the dining room, included in the price. For an interesting pastime, guests are offered:
- water skiing and catamarans;
- boating;
- fishing from a boat;
- karaoke bar;
- billiards;
- table tennis;
- volleyball court;
- bath;
- children's playground.
The main entertainment for which tourists come to the Cherry Hills base even from 300-400 km away is fishing. A good catch, a large selection of "baited" places allow you to enjoy your favorite pastime.
Sanatorium "Lukomorye"
On the shore of the Iriklinsky reservoir you can not only have a good rest, but also put your he alth in order. Sanatorium-dispensary "Lukomorye" helps to solve or prevent problems with the circulatory system, digestive and nutritional organs, with the musculoskeletal system.
Cozy rooms are designed for 1-2 people and have everything you need to make the patient feel comfortable. Located in the green area of the townEnergetik he alth resort has everything necessary to carry out medical procedures and diversify the leisure of guests.
At their disposal:
- gym;
- indoor pool;
- billiards;
- massage room;
- sauna;
- volleyball and badminton courts”
- 3 meals a day.
The he alth resort serves clients all year round, providing them with quality rest with treatment or prevention of diseases.
Recreation center "Tanalyk"
One of the most popular entertainment offered by the Iriklinskoe reservoir is fishing. The recreation center "Tanalyk" boasts excellent places for this at the mouth of the river of the same name, which flows into this reservoir.
A clear mirror of water surrounded by rocky shores covered with dense vegetation is a picturesque place that makes you want to come back again and again.
You can deliver your own water transport to the camp site, for which special berths are equipped, or rent it on the spot. For those who prefer active recreation to fishing, it is offered:
- playing beach volleyball;
- badminton;
- tennis court;
- football field;
- indoor swimming pool with transparent dome;
- cafe on a floating pontoon;
- children's entertainment room.
Guests are accommodated in cozy rooms, and those who prefer more privacy and are willing to pay for it, comfortable separate guest villas await.
Chaika camp site
Built in 2006, the Chaika camp site has become a favorite vacation spot thanks to the picturesque banks of the Iriklinskoye reservoir.
Guests are greeted by 6 comfortable cottages, each of which is designed for six people. On the territory of the base everything is created for a good rest at any time of the year. Fishermen expect a catch of ruffs, crucian carp, perch, carp, carp and pike.
Sports grounds are equipped for outdoor enthusiasts. One of the most picturesque places of the reservoir will be the best for a family vacation or recuperation after a week of work with friends.
Reservoir development
Today, water activities are actively developing at the Iriklinsky reservoir - yachting, catamarans, water skiing, windsurfing, diving and spearfishing. New camp sites are being built, providing a comfortable and affordable holiday in beautiful places.
